Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), state government, district administration and temple servitors stood inside the sanctum sanctorum of Puri’s Jagannath Temple.
About Jagannath Temple:
- The Jagannath Temple is located in Puri, Odisha.
- It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his incarnations as Jagannath, along with his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
Construction and Architecture:
- The temple was initially built by Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva between 1112-1148 AD and later completed by Anangabhima Dev.
- Its construction was reconstructed starting from the 10th century by King Indradyumna of Avanti.
- Anantavarman was the first ruler of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
- The Jagannath Temple reflects the Kalinga school of architecture, which is a variant of the Nagara school. It is noted for its high platform and the unique aspect that its shadow does not fall on the ground at any time of the day.
Cultural and Religious Importance:
- The temple is recognized as one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, which is essential for Hindu devotees.
- It is also part of the Vaishnavate tradition’s 108 Abhimana Kshethram.
Idols and Iconography:
- The main deities, Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, are uniquely made out of wood at this temple.
- These wooden idols are periodically replaced every twelve or nineteen years in a ritual known as Navakalevara.
Festivals and Practices:
- The temple hosts significant festivals like Devasnana Purnima and the Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival).
- During the Rath Yatra, the idols are paraded in massive, ornately decorated temple chariots.
- Worship during the Rath Yatra is uniquely conducted by Bhil Sawar, a tribal priest.
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